ALS

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disease that typically begins in the hands, feet, and extremities, then progress centrally. People may first discover that they have difficulty walking, are tripping or have poor balance. In addition, people may notice that they have weakness in their hands or legs, along with occasional muscle cramps.

As the disease progresses, it affects walking, use of the arms, speaking, swallowing and breathing muscles. While there is no cure for ALS, maintaining independence and function as long as possible is the goal of the rehabilitation team. Safety with walking and adaptation of assistive devices is critical to prevent secondary complications such as fractures from falls.

How therapy helps

Physical therapy focuses on improving and maintaining range of motion, strength, stamina, walking, and balance. In addition, our physical therapists will focus on making recommendations for adaptive equipment such as canes, walkers, wheelchairs, braces and other devices. The goal of physical therapy is to maintain safety with walking and independence for as long as possible.

Although ALS is a progressive disease, the use of physical, occupational and speech therapy can make a big difference in your quality of life, maintaining independence and function for as long as possible. To learn more contact us, our physical therapists serves in the locations of Mesa & Globe, AZ. Visit us today!